Charting the Course by Leslea Wahl

Charting the Course is the fourth book I have read by Leslea Wahl. This is a YA book and is the second book in the series. It can be read as a stand-alone, though there are some overlapping characters. This is a YA mystery with coming-of-age themes.

The character development was good. Liz is dealing with the emotions and challenges of being a teenager and working through being a child of divorced parents. Liz’s dad, Wade, on this trip, is confronted with his true self. Seeing how his actions have affected people, especially his daughter. Watching the relationships being rebuilt was touching.

The setting was so fun. Set on a cruise ship for a high school reunion was such a fun idea. Reading it made me want to be there. The storyline was fun and perfect for YA. Liz is forced to come on this 30-year reunion cruise with her father because he has no one else to bring. As the trip goes on, Liz is swept up in a singing competition. While competing, she also runs into some people who know her friend Josie from the previous book. They ask her for help to find out who is stealing on the ship. Things get uncovered interestingly. But that is not the only mystery Liz is trying to figure out; she is being sent on a faith journey as well. With mystery, stealing, high school feuds, old flames, and new crushes, there are lots of elements that make this story a fun read

The romance aspect is light and sweet, kisses-only. This is a YA with the main focus not being romance, so it was the perfect amount for this genre.

Leslea Wahl did a great job of intertwining faith throughout the book. Though written from a catholic aspect, it can be enjoyed by all.

*I received a complimentary copy from the author and voluntarily chose to review it. All opinions are my own.